We tend to ignore our roofs until there’s a leak or another problem. We barely notice them unless they look terrible or great. There are things every homeowner should know about roofing that many don’t. Here are some true or false questions to assess your roof knowledge:
- My roof should last 20 years or more without issues.
- Roofing inspections are a waste of money.
- Roof maintenance is only for commercial buildings.
Here are the answers and explanations as to why the answers to the above statements are all false.
Roof Life Varies
Depending upon your roofing material, brand and even line with in the brand a roof’s expected life varies from 15 to 50 years. Most homes in our area with the original roofing have 3-tab shingles. These shingles last about 15 years under the best circumstances. Newer architectural shingles last about 25 years with good maintenance. Metal or tile roofing can last 50 years or more. Of course, the longer a roof is expected to last, the more it will cost.
No roof will last as long as expected if you don’t properly maintain it and repair it when necessary. There are many reasons from poor installation to storms to aging that lead to roof leaks and necessary maintenance and repair.
Roofing Inspections Save You Money
Not all roofing companies charge for a roofing inspection, however, those who do take more time performing it and don’t create artificial problems. A good roofing company will perform a detailed inspection and provide you with their findings in writing. They’ll make recommendations for repair or maintenance and often, when you approve the work, they’ll deduct the cost of the inspection from the work. Because a roofing inspection finds small issues before you have a big roof leak, fixing some loose flashing, for example, will cost less than replacing insulation, drywall and roof deck as well as shingles that can happen when you forgo regular inspections.
Roof Maintenance Will Help Your Roof Last
If you want your roof to last, have your roofer perform regular maintenance during or after their roofing inspection. Regular maintenance includes reattaching loose gutters, sealing flashing, reaffixing loose shingles and more. Regular maintenance on your roof is much like that on your HVAC, it will help it last longer which saves you money in the long run.
Cooley Roofing offers roofing inspections, roof maintenance and repair as well as roof replacements. We use only leading brands and will answer all your questions about the differences in materials available today. If you haven’t had a roofing inspection, know you have a leak or need a new roof, we’re open for business and ready to safely provide you with whichever of our services you require. Call us today at (336) 766-6488 or fill out our contact form. We’re A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau for your peace of mind.
